Islamic ArtStoneca. 1640Dagger with Hilt in the Form of a Blue Bull (Nilgai) is a stone from India created in ca. 1640 using hilt: nephrite blade: watered steel measuring H. 15 in. (38.1 cm) — now part of the Islamic Art collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About This Artwork
| Medium | Hilt: Nephrite Blade: Watered steel |
| Dimensions | H. 15 in. (38.1 cm) |
| Classification | Stone |
| Department | Islamic Art |
| Credit Line | Gift of Alice Heeramaneck, in memory of Nasli Heeramaneck, 1985 |
| Date | ca. 1640 |
Historical Context
Geography
Origin: India. 
Frequently Asked Questions
What department houses Dagger with Hilt in the Form of a Blue Bull (Nilgai)?
Dagger with Hilt in the Form of a Blue Bull (Nilgai) is housed in the Islamic Art department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
When was Dagger with Hilt in the Form of a Blue Bull (Nilgai) created?
Dagger with Hilt in the Form of a Blue Bull (Nilgai) dates to ca. 1640.
What material is Dagger with Hilt in the Form of a Blue Bull (Nilgai) made from?
Dagger with Hilt in the Form of a Blue Bull (Nilgai) is crafted from hilt: nephrite blade: watered steel.
Where does Dagger with Hilt in the Form of a Blue Bull (Nilgai) originate?
Dagger with Hilt in the Form of a Blue Bull (Nilgai) originates from India.
Is Dagger with Hilt in the Form of a Blue Bull (Nilgai) in the public domain?
Dagger with Hilt in the Form of a Blue Bull (Nilgai) is in the public domain and can be freely used.
Data Source: The Metropolitan Museum of Art Open Access · Last updated: April 2026